This is a friend of mines rifle. Be inherited it from his dad who was the original buyer. We were talking and we were wondering what this rifle might be worth? He has not intention of ever selling it just for curisity purposes. It's in really good condition.


The letter reads as follows;

Dear V.E.

Glad to hear from you again. As for the work on your rifle--The last action I sent off for re-barreling cost $34.00 for a Douglass Premium fetherweight. Forging bolt handle for low scope mount, $8.00. Drilling and tapping for scope mounts, $6.00. The polishing and re-bluing would cost $10.00. The stock in choice, hard maple would cost $100.00 to $125.00, depending on the style of checkering and other extras. You might like to get the metal work done elsewhere, or I can do part and get the rest done. (Buehler safety, $6.50).

I plan to hunt in Montana and will be away until about the 15th. Nov. I have promised work on hand and I doubt if I could get to your gun before March. If you want me to help you with it let me know later, as to just what you have in mind for the stock and we can make definite plans and prices.

Sincerely,

Hal H.

34.00
8.00
6.50
10.00
125.00
6.50
15.00
--------
$205.00

The rifle was built on an Argentine Mauser action.

Great stuff with this letter. Is it dated?


Your friend's rifle is very similar to this one my dad has:


http://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/10256508/1

The letter is dated October 2nd. The Rifle was built in 1956.

Very nice rifle your dad has.

He actually has 4 Hartley custom built rifles. 2 with the maple stocks and 2 with the French Walnut stocks.

Your friend has some real treasures there.

I saw you asked about value:


Using the CPI calculator : http://data.bls.gov/cgi-bin/cpicalc.pl?cost1=205&year1=1956&year2=2015


$205.00 in 1956 would = $1,792.53 in 2015 dollars to build.

Dad's rifle has been appraised in the 3500.00 -4000.00 range by a local fellow who collects/deals in fine vintage custom rifles.

I would expect your friend's rifle would be of close/similar value.

Thank you!

Glad I could help a little.

What caliber are you pal's rifles chambered for?

.270 and 338 Magnum. Can't remember the last one.

that is two fine ones.